Former Manchester United winger Nani has backed his cousin, Sidnei Tavares, to make a name for himself at Blackburn Rovers, just like he did against them during his time in the Premier League.
The 39-year-old has been keeping a close eye on Tavares' progress since he joined the Championship club last summer from Moreirense. The midfielder began his career in English football at Leicester City, making two Premier League appearances in the 2020-21 season before moving to Portugal and then to the MLS with Colorado Rapids.
Nani's thoughts on his cousin
Tavares, who is of Portuguese descent, made a strong start to the Championship season before suffering an injury in October. Despite finding it tough to regain his form since his return, Nani believes his cousin has a bright future ahead of him.
"He's a really good player and having his moment now," Nani said. "I am wishing all the best for him, to produce the best he can on the field."
"I think his future could be brilliant if he continues with the right mentality, the right behaviour and keeps two feet on the ground. He can achieve whatever he wants to achieve."
Coming from a footballing family
Nani, who won the Premier League four times with Manchester United, enjoyed one of his best games in a red shirt against Blackburn Rovers in a 7-1 victory back in 2010. Tavares, however, is still waiting to register his first goal contribution for Rovers.
Four years ago, Tavares' father, Marco, revealed how Nani helped influence his son. "Nani is a cousin on his mother's side," he said. "After she went back to Portugal and heard he was playing football, she put Nani on the phone to Sidnei and he had a good chat with him."
"He gave him lots of advice and said he would keep track of his progress and to stay in touch with him."
